Are you considering getting breast implants this year?

If so, you might be interested to know that your options recently increased by one: the FDA approved a new breast implant just last month.

The Natrelle 410 Highly Cohesive Anatomically Shaped Silicone-Gel Filled Breast Implant—also referred to by many doctors as a “Gummy Bear” implant because of how it feels in-hand—was approved in February for breast augmentation surgery for adults twenty-two and older (and for breast cancer survivors of any age who are undergoing breast reconstruction). Manufactured by Allergan, the implant is firmer than earlier silicone implant models and has a tear-drop shape that is said to give breasts a more natural look than other implants on the market.

Though the product is new to the U.S., it has been available in a number of other countries for years. The FDA collected data from 941 women over the course of seven years before granting Allergan approval for sale here in the States. Based on the information gathered, the side effects associated with these implants are similar to those associated with other breast implants.

Some doctors (and women) prefer these Gummy Bear implants because their unique texture makes them less likely to cause wrinkling or to display visible edges once inserted. Because of their firmness, however, they require a slightly larger incision, and of course feel less pliable than other implants, which some women might find off-putting. Ultimately these are not going to be for everyone, of course—every woman’s shape and preference is unique, and a number of factors going into determining which implant is best for each individual patient—but the more options the better!

If you’re interested in learning more about breast augmentation or Gummy Bear implants, please feel free to contact us here at the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center and set up a consultation!